Silly me that is incorrect. A bye means that Sharapova gets through to the next round without having to play a match.Perhaps her opponent dropped out at the last minute and there were no substitutes available or something.

It happens a lot in qualifying as there often aren't enough people. Also in some Masters events the seeds get a bye to the next round. that's why some draws are 56 or 92. In Queens the top 8 Seeds get a bye to Round 2.

Well.. sometimes yes, because say if it is a really small competition.. with about 14 players. So there will have to be the quater finals.. then the semis and then the finals. since there are 14 people.. and quaters need 16 people - 2 people will have no one to play until the semis.. therefore they have a "bye".That's just an example I hope it makes sense!! Also if say someone pulls out or doesn't want to play.. that's also a bye. (i.e. the opposition goes through to the next round without playing anyone!)

Actually most of the higher ranked (International Series) ATP tournaments have a Bye in the first round for seeded players.

Generally there's a better chance of "names" attracted to this tier of events, and there's no way they want their draw to be decimated too soon, or to not participate because there's too many games. A "Roddick" or "Nadal" eg can make or break a tournament financially.

It's quite usual for the top seeds not to play until Wednesday, plus they are guarenteed Race points as they automatically reach Round 2.

One of the reasons I have zero respect for Safin as a tennis player is that he has taken advantage of this, turned up for his 2nd round match and thrown the game. Despite the ATP fining him for this, it's awful to pay huge ticket prices to watch a bloke with huge talent, just stand there. Without spectators paying to see him, Marat wouldn't be the squillionaire he is.

I've heard about it alright Tally is absolutely spot on with the explanation... Safin can be such an idiot. My family know his so this is probably one of the only places that i can have a proper rant at Marat's antics.